In today’s program Dr. Reminga, from Northern Foot Care Center, talks about the biomechanics of the feet and ankles. The feet and ankles form a complex system that has a direct affect on the rest of the body. Improper foot biomechanics can lead to ankle, knee, hip, and back pain leading all the way to the head. The structure and function of our two feet are a masterpiece of engineering as Leonardo Da Vinci described. Think about it… the foot and ankle consists of 28 bones, 33 joints, 112 ligaments, controlled by 13 extrinsic and 21 intrinsic muscles. The foot is also divided into sections.. Rear-foot, mid-foot, and forefoot. They function as rigid structures to support the forceful weight that bears down on them when we walk. They also function as flexible structures to conform and adjust to movement on uneven ground. The feet also provide many important functions such as… supporting body weight, providing balance and shock absorption, propelling our bodies forward and side to side, as well as transporting us from one point to another.

Foot biomechanics studies foot structures and foot movements during walking, running, jumping and sport and… the effects of those movements on the rest of our body. The relationship of the foot to the lower leg and the rest of the body is key. As we move, walk and run, the bones and muscles, or musculoskeletal system, of our feet and legs, generates force to propel the body forward. Proper foot biomechanics allow the body to walk, run, jump, and move freely without pain. An important aspect of foot biomechanics is a person’s GAIT. Foot problems can occur because of abnormal function of the feet during GAIT.

Many specific foot problems are caused by biomechanical issues within the foot or lower leg. In order to understand the cause of these foot and ankle problems, foot function and as well as foot anatomy must be understood as well as foot biomechanics.

Listen to today’s program to find out more about this interesting topic. Dr. Reminga is a board certified foot and ankle specialist with over 30 years of experience. If you have any type of foot or ankle problem, Dr. Reminga can help.